Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Silent Yellow are both popular options to consider. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is a linear switch that stands out for its unique poppy and clacky sound, smoothness, and overall high quality, making it ideal for budget-minded individuals seeking a top-notch typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow is also a linear switch known for its silent operation, providing a more discreet typing experience without compromising on performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Silent Yellow feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting. However, while both switches share the same material for their top housings, the V3 Cream Black Pro has a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature. In contrast, the Silent Yellow also uses a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing the duller and rounder sound that nylon is known for absorbing.
The difference in material for the bottom housings of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Silent Yellow results in varying typing experiences. With the V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing, typists can expect a deeper and fuller sound with each keystroke, creating a more robust typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Yellow will provide a similar experience, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. While the top housing plays a role in the sound when keys are released, the bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, giving each switch its unique typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch plays a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience. Both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Outemu Silent Yellow showcase the different characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon in their housing materials. While the top housings of both switches share the same material, the variation in the bottom housing material results in distinctive sound profiles. Typists can expect a sharper and crisper sound from the polycarbonate top housings, while the nylon bottom housings offer a deeper and fuller typing experience. Ultimately, the combination of these materials contributes to the overall feel and sound of each switch.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, which has an actuation force of 65 grams. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Cream Black Pro requires 65 grams while the Silent Yellow needs 80 grams, making the Silent Yellow the heavier option overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch and less fatigue during extended typing sessions, the Cream Black Pro may be the better choice. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile and forceful keystroke. Both switches have their own strengths and can cater to different preferences based on individual typing styles and needs.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Cream Black Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Silent Yellow's 4 mm travel distance. This means that the V3 Cream Black Pro will provide a quicker response time for users who prefer a shorter travel distance, such as gamers looking for faster actuation. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches offer their own advantages based on personal preference, with the V3 Cream Black Pro providing a quicker, more responsive feel, while the Silent Yellow offers a slightly more pronounced keypress experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
The Outemu Silent Yellow comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is known for its high-pitched, sharp, and crisp sound profile when pressed, which is distinct from the richer and bassier sound profiles of other switches. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is described as creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished. This means that users can expect a smooth, buttery typing experience with a spring-like rebound sensation and increased responsiveness, enhanced by a refined and sleek key travel. In contrast, there is no information provided about the tactile qualities of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch.
Considering the available information, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch offers a unique sound profile with a high-pitched and sharp tone, along with a smooth and buttery feel that provides a bouncy and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the characteristics of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch remain unknown. Ultimately, for users seeking a budget-friendly option with a high-quality sound and feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch would be a reliable choice.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, a high-pitched and smooth typing experience, and a budget-friendly option with a unique sound profile, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams and are looking for a silent switch option, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch might better suit your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and priorities.
Mentioned in this article
